Winchester, 7th November
Hampshire is ready to welcome you for an unforgettable year of culture, coast and great days out. Whether you love historic cities, family‑friendly attractions or beautiful countryside, you’ll find plenty of Hampshire events to enjoy across the county in every season.
From city celebrations and outdoor festivals to family attractions and seasonal events, Hampshire offers an exciting calendar of events throughout 2026. This autumn in Portsmouth, the city celebrates its 100th anniversary, with the return of the colourful International Kite Festival filling the skies above Southsea Common (F) 12 - 13 September, whilst in November, We Shine returns, with light illuminations and displays from 19 - 21 November (F). In Winchester, its the fantastic annual torchlight procession and fireworks display that is a must for the diary, (7 November) filling the streets of this historic town with families, friends, visitors and residents alike, whilst in Basingstoke there's a whole host of spooktacular free family-fun this October half term in the town centre.
Don't miss the chance to enjoy the thrilling Go Ape experience by night this autumn at Itchen Valley Park, Southampton (16 October - 8 November), or miss the UK's biggest Oktoberfest at Southampton Guildhall Square, with music, Bavarian food and a themed marquee (23 - 24 October). Pick up a new autumn wardrode with a visit to John Lewis at WestQuay, or join their upcoming home design talk for some great ideas to refresh your decor (16 October) - a great all-weather day out. Enjoy the changing of the season with the Jane Austen circular walk, a four and half mile trail that starts from Jane Austen's House and explores some of East Hampshire's beautiful countryside.
From scenic coastlines and vibrant events to cosy villages, walking trails and excellent places to eat, Hampshire is the ideal destination for a short break or longer escape. Start planning your 2026 summer adventure today and discover some of the county's top events, attractions and experiences.
Grab your calendar and take a look at what's happening in Hampshire over the coming months with our featured events list or scroll to the bottom and discover hundreds of events happening today, this weekend and across this year. From coastal festivals and city celebrations to countryside walks, food experiences and family attractions, Hampshire offers one of the most varied events calendars in South East England.
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You can find a wide range of events taking place across Hampshire today and this weekend, including theatre shows, interactive workshops, wildlife experiences and outdoor events in the Hampshire countryside. Use the date filters above, or browse the listings to find lots of inspiration and ideas for something happening near you. Families on a budget can look out for the many free events (Free) taking place.
If you're travelling from outside the county for an event in Hampshire, there are numerous hotels and other accommodation options to suit your needs. Search Hampshire accommodation to plan your stay, whether your choose the coastal city of Portsmouth or Southampton, Winchester - the ancient capital of England - or a more rural stay in Chawton or Alton, East Hampshire.
Yes, Hampshire hosts a wide range of family-friendly events throughout the year, from nature trails, outdoor festivals, science fairs and interactive school holiday activities. Use the 'type filter' in the search box above and choose family to find suitable events. During the summer holidays and key seasonal periods, you'll find even more events designed for children and families, with activities suitable for all ages.
Yes. South Western Railway connects more than 50 stations across Hampshire with London Waterloo, Vauxhall and Clapham Junction making a day trip or weekend break easy from London. Book your rail tickets and enjoy your next event in Hampshire.
The guide below shows our full calendar of events in Hampshire. Whether you're looking for what's on this weekend or planning further ahead, you'll find plenty of inspiration. If you're local or visiting Hampshire for the first time, use the 'Map View' button to discover events happening near you.
Some of the events below take place on the Isle of Wight, which is easily accessible by ferry or hovercraft from Portsmouth or Lymington.
Number of results: 123
, currently showing 1 to 20.
Christmas
Winchester
Join thousands of visitors at the Winchester Christmas Lights Switch-On 2026 on 19 November for an evening of live entertainment, festive family activities and Christmas cheer. Watch the city lights illuminate Winchester's historic centre, enjoy…
Theatre
Eastleigh
Murder on the North Pole Express
A Christmas Murder Mystery Dinner Theatre
Saturday 5th December 2026
All aboard for a Christmas journey where the festive spirit is high, the characters are colourful… and someone may not make it to the final…
Run / Rally
New Forest
We are delighted to announce the return of Simply Smart on Sunday 8 November 2026.
All Smart owners are invited to drive into Beaulieu to park up in the museum grounds, for a day out that owners and enthusiasts will enjoy. The event is set to…
Christmas
Romsey
Hampshire's largest festive light trail returns this Christmas as the award-winning Light Up Sir Harold Hillier Gardens transforms the gardens into a glowing wonderland.
Sporting Events
23 Harbour Parade, Southampton
Want to discover the newest winter fashion trends and brands for the upcoming season? Join the Personal Stylists from John Lewis Southampton for an intimate look at the key trends and must-have essentials shaping this winter's wardrobe.
Christmas
Brockenhurst
With festive dining inspired by the New Forest, experience dishes created using locally sourced ingredients and executed with a striking twist makes Careys Manor's flagship restaurant, Cambium, the place to meet and celebrate this Christmas.
Show / Display
Portsmouth
We Shine is back for 2026 - transforming the city into a dazzling gallery of illuminated art.
Markets
Old Portsmouth
Set to be the Hotwalls' biggest and best yet Christmas Market yet, with 50+ traders, festive lights, wooden chalets, and mulled wine, it promises to be a festive treat!
Christmas
Basingstoke
A very Merry Elf-mas is coming to The Malls 🎄🎁 Throughout November and December, there is lots happening, from cheeky elves causing mayhem to many giveaways for you to enter.
Portsmouth 100
Portsmouth
In 2026, Portsmouth celebrates its 100th anniversary of becoming a city with a wide round program of events and activities for both visitors and residents to enjoy. Visit the city, join the events and discover more of Portsmouth's fascinating…
Fireworks
Newport
The 2026 Fireworks display will take place at Robin Hill Adventure Park on 7 November. Watch the sky come alive with a dazzling fireworks display for all ages to enjoy.
Festival
Portsmouth
Portsmouth Comic Con returns to the Guildhall for 2027 presenting the best in comic, film, TV and pop culture entertainment - a fantastic family-friendly day in Portsmouth, Hampshire.
Sporting Event
Cowes
Cowes Week 2027 brings world-class sailing back to the Isle of Wight, with around 5,000 competitors racing more than 600 boats across 35 classes on the Solent. One of the world's most famous sailing regattas, the event combines thrilling racing,…
Christmas
Cowes
The Northwood House Christmas Fair returns on Saturday 28 November and Sunday 29 November 2026 on Isle of Wight. There is a VIP Preview Night on Friday 27 November.
Show / Display
Northwood
Historic county show on the Isle of Wight The Royal Isle of Wight County Show returns on Saturday 10 and Sunday 11 July 2027. With a history dating back to 1833, the event has long been a showcase for our island's agricultural heritage, local…
Walking
Town Quay, Southampton
Explore Southampton’s big sights and hidden corners, uncover quirky stories, and enjoy 1–2 hours of fresh‑air exploring on each fully wheelchair and buggy‑friendly route. Fun, affordable and perfect for all ages.
Outdoor Event / Activities
Southampton
Go Ape Sundown Adventures are back for autumn 2026 at Go Ape Southampton, offering a new level of forest fun in the evenings after dark.
Free Event
Portsmouth
Get your bag for life ready — there’s never been a more exciting time to shop the market.
Christmas
London Road
Immerse yourself in an unforgettable experience at Bombay Sapphire Distillery's Christmas Cinema Nights. Start your experience with an arrival G&T before heading through to the Sapphire Cinema to enjoy a showing of a Christmas classic.
Show / Display
Romsey
The Romsey Show takes place in September at Broadlands in Romsey. The Show is one of the largest one-day country shows in the South and is run by a large team of dedicated volunteers. The show provides a fantastic day out with something for all the…
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